Referred to as the icon of hope and faith, Sechaba has over the years become a motivation to both young and old people. But  “It’s only through God’s grace” that his life turned out this way, says Sechaba who was once a street kid.

His career started in 2005 when he released his multi-platinum debut album, Sechaba, which was followed by Modimo Oteng (God exists) – another successful offering.

According to Sechaba, the power of prayer is stressed in one of the songs “Jeso Ke Mmoloki waka”. He guarantees  that by listening to this track, “One can fully understand the pride one has in God”.

“When you walk with the Lord no evil will harm you under any circumstances,” he explained

Sipho Makhabane produced most of the songs on this soul-shaking album and also helped with vocal work.

Sechaba used the song ‘Oh Mohau’  to pay tribute to Sammy Malete, a gospel musician he admired as a young man.

The album will be released on the 5 October  and will prepare you not just for the festive season but for the kingdom of God.

Album Title: Modimo O Teng’

Genre: Gospel

Year of Release: 2008

Once a street kid from Johannesburg, Free State-born Sechaba has miraculously carved out a notable name for himself on the local gospel scene. His latest album ‘Modimo O Teng’ has been doing fairly well since its release late last year. On the album, he works with gospel music producer Tshepo Nzimande, who is also his longtime mentor.

The album starts with ‘Lapo ukhona’, a track that has very minimal instrumental backing, only accompanied by a soothing violin. The progression sounds very familiar to that of ‘alpha and omega’, a classical African composition that has also been performed in many languages worldwide. He praises the lord and persistently assures Christians that God is always there no matter the magnitude of life’s problems.

The second track is titled ‘Mina Ngialibona’. It’s an ordinary track that’s perhaps made more captivating by a very familiar featured male vocalist. The CD cover fails to reveal any details but my guess is that Lundi Tyamara lent his voice on the song.

Lyrically, Modimo O Teng’ is not as powerful as his past album, this shown in the singer’s reliance on well-known folk compositions like ‘wozani’ and ‘siyakudumisa’. ‘Hanthe Jesu’ is possibly his best effort on the album. Backed by soft female vocals, he uses a lead-and-response style on the chorus and delivers well on all the verses.

Sechaba seals the album with ‘kuwe baba’ a track that’s smoothly introduced by strings, piano notes, cymbals and occasional military drums.

Instrumentally, Sechaba uses keyboard strings, bass guitar and occasional lead guitar melodies. Overall, it’s a good album and I can recommend it to anyone who loves inspirational African gospel music.

Cover/Art: 1/5 | Sound/Technical: 4/5 | Rating: 6.5/10